Diabetic patients need to choose proper footwear. Footwear made of hard synthetic materials acts as ledges and traumatizes the foot. Good insoles and MCR (microcellular rubber) footwear are very useful to prevent foot ulcers. The patient must follow certain important steps in selecting and using footwear.

They should be light-weight, flexible and have a good shock absorbing sole.

Well fitting shoes must be used. Tapering shoes produce crowding of the toes. They must be avoided.

Check that the shoes are deep, wide and long enough.

Do not wear ‘slip on’ shoes. A shoe requires some type of fastening in order to hold your foot firmly and securely.

Don’t forget that your feet can change shape as you grow older and frequently inspect yours.

Shop for your shoes in the afternoon or after exercising, in case your legs or feet swell.

Don’t walk barefooted.

Avoid wearing slippers for any length of time as they encourage a shuffling gait and offer no support.

Always check inside your shoes before wearing them as there may be impaled nails through the sole.

Smooth out wrinkles in socks. Socks must be loose and preferably made of cotton so that your feet can breathe. Make sure that your feet are not too moist or too dry.